Empowering Local Talent and Innovation Through Merdeka 118 Community Grants
In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the monumental Merdeka 118 tower not only transforms the city’s skyline but also kindles a flame of inspiration for fostering arts and crafts within the community. Under the aegis of Permodalan Nasional Bhd (PNB), the Merdeka 118 precinct emerges as a beacon of support for local artistry, unveiling an array of initiatives aimed at nurturing talent and creativity.
As part of its community enrichment program, the Merdeka 118 Community Grants Programme, spearheaded by PNB’s subsidiary PNB Merdeka Ventures Sdn Bhd (PNBMV) in collaboration with Think City, has launched a new wave of projects under its belt. These initiatives, spanning from urban farming to watercolour art exhibitions, underscore a collective ambition to reinvigorate the local arts scene and provide platforms for talent to flourish.
Among the success stories of the program is the “Young Woodpreneur 118” initiative by Re:Kayu. This innovative social enterprise aims to bring woodworking and laser crafting skills to the youth of surrounding communities, offering them not just training but also avenues to market their creations. This program is a testament to the power of art and craftsmanship in uplifting communities, empowering 30 individuals with the tools and opportunities to transform their skills into sustainable livelihoods.
Parallel to this, the “Sayur in the City” project stands out for its commitment to green initiatives, focusing on urban farming and the conversion of the harvest into sustainable, marketable products. This venture aligns closely with the sustainability goals of modern urban development, teaching valuable skills in agriculture along with business acumen related to food production.
The spirit of creativity is further celebrated through Jamal Tommy Gallery’s initiative, which invites local artists to capture the essence of Merdeka 118 through watercolour paintings. This competition-cum-exhibition not only showcases local talent but also offers artists the opportunity to gain recognition and income from their work, tying in with the overarching goal of the grant program to support and elevate the local arts community.
These projects, alongside others including the forward-thinking “Community Plastic Upcycling Empowerment” initiative, mark a significant step in the direction of community development and engagement. By leveraging art and innovation, the Merdeka 118 Community Grants Programme aims to create a more inclusive, vibrant, and sustainable future for the local community.
Moreover, participants of these grant-funded projects have the unique opportunity to display their talents and products at various community markets and events such as the Peszta festival. This not only provides a platform for showcasing their work but also integrates the local community with the broader spectrums of music, arts, and culture within Kuala Lumpur.
In essence, the ongoing efforts by PNBMZ, under the Merdeka 118 initiative, breathe life into the concept of community development through the arts. By facilitating these innovative projects, they pave the way for a future where local communities can not only imagine but also materialize their dreams through creativity, craftsmanship, and the collective spirit of innovation. As the Merdeka 118 precinct continues to rise, so too does the hope and ambition of its surrounding communities, inspired and supported to reach new heights of artistic and entrepreneurial achievement.
